PLC programming is an extensive engineering field, and control engineers need to work with sophisticated software such as Human-Machine Interface (HMI) development, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), simulation, and PLC programming. Due to the demanding nature of these tasks, a low-end computer or laptop may struggle to handle the workload efficiently.
Top Rated Budget Laptops
Last update on 2024-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
That’s why investing in the best laptop for PLC programming is crucial so you can run robust programs and handle multiple virtual machines seamlessly.
We must understand what we need before diving into the recommendations for the best PLC programming laptops. The requirements may differ to the work scenario; therefore, choosing a computer with an adequate hardware configuration that aligns with your need is crucial.
This article will discuss everything we must consider before choosing the best laptops for PLC programming in 2024. So, let’s get started.
If you’re in a hurry, check out our top choices:
- Acer Swift X (for beginners)
- LG gram 17 (mid-range)
- Lenovo ThinkPad P17 (for professionals)
Best Laptops for PLC Programming in 2024 – Buyer’s Guide
Processor
Undoubtedly processor is the most crucial component of any computer, and it should be chosen wisely because, unlike the memory or storage, you won’t be able to upgrade it. Processor speed mainly depends on the clock speed, number of cores, and cache size.
A core is a processing unit that performs calculations or actions for instructions. It’s an additional embedded chip on the CPU; therefore, a processor with extra cores can do multi calculations simultaneously faster than a single-core CPU. But keep in mind; it also depends on the software programs; it should be compatible with the multi-cores.
The clock speed or frequency defines how fast a processor can calculate; the GHz represents it; the higher, the better.
For an Ideal PLC programming laptop, I recommend a CPU with at least 3.5GHz clock speed and four cores, as it’s the minimum required by most software programs used by control engineers such as ABB RobotStudio and Siemens TIA Portal.
A processor with a sizable cache allows faster data access and retrieval, improving the speed of executing instructions and accessing frequently used data. In short, shoot for a processor with at least an 8MB cache, specifically the L3 cache.
Memory
Memory is the second crucial requirement for a PLC programming laptop. Extra memory always comes in handy, whether it’s about multitasking or running more virtual machines simultaneously.
Nowadays, memory isn’t very costly; therefore, you should choose at least 16GB RAM for enhanced performance.
DDR5 is the most recent generation of memory technology in 2024 that you should look for. Don’t bother with channel, timings, clock speed, or other technical jargon; on the laptops because options are limited. Just focus on the latest architecture and the capacity.
Also, make sure the laptop has a RAM upgradability feature; it may be needed in the future. If you’re looking for a portable machine, memory expansion has fewer chances; even some latest notebooks come with soldered RAM, so be aware!
Storage
Storage technology also plays an essential role in computer processing power. As you already know about SSDs, they are a better choice than traditional HDDs. SSDs work on the flash storage, and there is no moving part inside them. That’s why they are remarkably faster, lightweight, reliable, durable, and consume less energy.
I recommend a laptop with PCIe NVMe SSD; it provides superior reading/writing speed even than SATA SSD, which can drastically enhance system performance. The capacity you should choose per your requirements; 512GB is a good start.
Display
For PLC programming, a laptop’s screen quality matters a lot. You have to choose the size according to your workspace requirements. Get a computer with a 15.6-inch or bigger screen. The larger display allows you more real estate for multitasking.
Screen resolution is also necessary because it defines the sharpness and details of the visual, which is essential for us. Look for at least a full HD (1920×1080) display; more resolution would be even excellent.
To represent the graphical elements, diagrams, and HMI interfaces color-accurately, you should consider the display’s color gamut. An IPS display with a 100% sRGB color gamut is an ideal point to start; it can deliver satisfactory results. The IPS panel also provides wider view angles, avoiding color shifting during observation.
Some control engineers love touchscreen because it offers more intuitive and efficient navigation. It’s beneficial for interacting with software interfaces, especially in HMI development applications.
You can also look for display brightness if you work in well-lit environments or outdoors.
If you use external monitors, these considerations might be less relevant. However, you must look for enough connectivity options in your laptop, which is coming next.
Connectivity ports
Whether we talk to an “old” network engineer or a PLC programmer, they tell you to have a laptop with a serial port. However, nowadays, it doesn’t matter much as you can solve this problem with a USB to Serial converter like this. You can also buy a Female-Female Modem Serial RS232 cable along with this converter, and easily communicate with most PLC processors and other devices. This USB-based serial port can be easily mapped into the virtual machine environment if needed.
A USB port is the most crucial connectivity option when choosing a laptop for PLC programming.
Make sure the laptop you’re going with has at least three USB ports, as these are required while doing troubleshooting, and no one wants to be bothered with a USB hub at that time. Moreover, try to look for the latest USB 3.2+ version for better speed, and don’t worry; they are also compatible with the older version.
As I discussed above, if you use multiple monitors, you should look for a laptop with several connectivity options, including HDMI, mini DisplayPort, or Thunderbolt 4.
Operating System
It’s safe to say; Windows is the best operating system for PLC programmers because most industrial software programs are designed exclusively for that. However, it’s not impossible to run these programs on a Mac machine; with the dual boot, you can do that. I don’t recommend a Mac for this purpose, even though they are reliable, powerful, and portable.
You might be surprised the latest Windows 11 isn’t compatible with some old PLC programming software. You might need to run them in compatibility mode for Windows 10 or older. Windows 7 Professional was the safest OS for programming engineers as it used to support almost all the software. However, it’s not a big issue; you can downgrade to the Windows 7 professional or make a dual booting setup. I know Microsoft has ended the support for this old Windows version, but it is still the favorite of some engineers.
Longer battery life
It’s always great to have extra juice in your laptop; it always comes in handy. However, from a high-performance or larger laptop, you can’t expect a good battery life; it is especially true for 17-inch machines.
Laptops with dedicated graphics and higher-resolution screens also suffer from miserable battery life. Although, if you’re looking for robust performance and a high-resolution display with significant battery life, you should spend extra. In the review section, I have included all types of laptops for your convenience.
General FAQs
What are the minimum system requirements for a laptop for PLC programming?
A laptop with a Quad-Core and 3.5GHz+ processor, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB PCIe storage is generally recommended.
Is 8GB RAM enough for PLC programming?
Yes, the 8GB memory can work in many cases, but if you multitask or run several virtual machines, it’s always a good idea to have at least 16GB RAM.
Should I choose a laptop with a dedicated GPU for PLC programming?
I would say no. Most popular PLC programming software such as Siemens, Rockwell Automation, and GX Works 3 doesn’t require any dedicated GPU. However, having extra graphics power on your laptop will be right if you work with complex 3D modeling or graphical simulations.
How much storage capacity do I need for PLC programming?
The required storage capacity depends on your specific needs and the size of the projects and files you work with. Aim for at least 512GB of storage, but consider PCIe-based SSD to ensure dependable performance.
Is touchscreen capability important for PLC programming laptops?
A Touchscreen laptop isn’t essential for PLC programming, but it could be beneficial, especially when working with HMI interfaces or touch-based applications.
Which is the best laptop with a serial port for PLC programming?
Nowadays, having the latest laptop with a Serial port is almost impossible. However, you can use a USB to Serial port converter for any computer; it’s much more viable and works excellently.
Can I use a regular laptop for PLC programming work?
Yes, you can use a regular laptop for PLC programming work, but the performance may be painful due to the demanding nature of programs.
Should I choose a Windows or Linux laptop for PLC programming?
Windows laptops are commonly used in industrial automation due to software compatibility and industry standards. However, if you prefer open-source software and customization options, Linux can also be suitable.
Is Mac or Windows better for PLC programming?
Mac is undoubtedly the safest and most reliable OS, but unfortunately, it’s incompatible with many PLC programming software. Therefore, you’re advised to choose a Windows machine or make a dual setup on MacBook for running Windows.
How important is battery life in a laptop for PLC programming?
Battery life is crucial, primarily if you work in environments without access to power outlets. Look for laptops with longer battery life to ensure uninterrupted work sessions and increased mobility.
Can I connect multiple monitors to a laptop for PLC programming?
Yes, it’s possible. I have listed some laptops that offer multiple display capabilities. Usually, most laptops provide at least one option, but some notebooks even allow connecting up to three or more monitors simultaneously. Remember, I am talking about the “Extend” mode.
Is investing in a rugged or durable laptop for PLC programming worth it?
A rugged or durable laptop could be better if you work in harsh or demanding environments because it can withstand dust, vibration, and extreme temperatures. However, a standard laptop works fine in typical office or lab environments.
How often should I upgrade my laptop for PLC programming?
Generally, you may need to upgrade your laptop every 3-5 years due to the demand of evolving programming needs. However, in some cases adding an extra memory can do the trick.
QUICK OVERVIEW:
Best PLC programming laptops at a glance
ACER ASPIRE VERO CHEAPEST |
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| ACER SWIFT X BEST IN BUDGET |
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| LG GRAM 17 BEST INTEL EVO |
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MSI PRESTIGE 16 |
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| HP OMEN 17 GIANT GAMING |
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LENOVO LEGION PRO 5I BEST GAMING |
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DELL XPS 17 9720 PREMIUM OPTION |
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LENOVO THINKPAD P17 BEST WORKSTATION |
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Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Laptops for PLC Programmers in 2024 – Reviews
1. Acer Aspire Vero (Cheapest Laptop for PLC Programming in 2024)
Weight: 3.97 lbs | Processor: i7-1195G7 @5.0GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 6-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Acer Aspire Vero is a remarkable laptop designed from 30% Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) material which is a thoughtful way to reduce landfill waste on our mother earth. It offers a solid hardware configuration enough to handle our PLC programming needs.
This laptop is packed with an Intel Core i7-1195G7 Quad-core processor with 16GB memory and 512GB PCIe SSD storage. This CPU can go up to 5.0 GHz of clock speed and has a 12MB Smart cache which is enough for most PLC programming professionals.
Acer Vero houses a 15.6 -inch LED-backlit IPS panel with a 100% sRGB color gamut and 300 nits brightness. It can deliver dependable picture quality for editing, designing, and other color-sensitive tasks.
The design is innovative and durable. It’s made while considering the earth in mind. Even its packaging has gone too far regarding recycling; you can use its box’s content and shape it into a full-functioning laptop stand, however, suitable for static use. It offers a fingerprint sensor certified with Windows Hello. Also, plenty of ports are available, including HDMI, LAN, 3x USB Type-A, and Type-C, to cater to our needs.
The Acer Aspire Vero offers solid features and performance at a fantastic price, and you can consider it for PLC programming work without hesitation.
PROS
- Affordable
- Durable and earth-friendly design
- Impressive performance
- Reliable and responsive keyboard
- Enough connectivity ports
- Ideal battery life
- Fingerprint sensor
CONS
- Not for higher graphics use
2. Acer Swift X (Best Budget Laptop for PLC Programming)
Weight: 3.31 lbs | Processor: Ryzen 7 5800U @4.4GHz | GPU: RTX 3050Ti 4GB | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 14-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 9-hours | OS: Windows 10 Home
Another great laptop from Acer that I recommend for PLC programming work, especially if your budget is limited. Acer Swift X offers versatile functionality lacking in the previous notebook; it can also handle heavy graphics work.
Under the hood, it carries an AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor, 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe storage, and Nvidia RTX 3050Ti 4GB GPU. This Octa-core processor, backed by 4.4GHz clock speed and support of Nvidia robust GPU and PCIe SSD, can deliver seamless performance.
The display quality is almost the same as its previous sibling; it also boasts a 100% sRGB-supported IPS panel, which is adequate for our work. The fingerprint sensor is also available, backed by Windows Hello, to instant login to your pc.
Acer Swift X is crafted from metal to ensure a sleek, durable, and portable design. The battery life is slightly better than the previous Acer Aspire Vero despite having even more significant performance. Some latest features, such as a backlit keyboard, Wi-Fi 6, dual speakers, and HD webcam, are available.
If you want to connect two monitors to this machine, it’s feasible because it has an HDMI port with Type-C supported by DisplayPort.
Overall, Acer Swift X offers excellent value for the money; it’s a robust, beautiful, long-lasting, and feature-packed machine.
PROS
- 100% sRGB display
- Longer battery life
- Ample connectivity options
- Great performance
- Fingerprint sensor
- Metal body
CONS
- Soldered memory
- Speaker quality is average
3. LG Gram 17 (Best Intel Evo Laptop for PLC Programming)
Weight: 2.98 lbs | Processor: i7-1260P @ 4.7GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17-inch , 2560 x 1600 | Battery Life: 11-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Despite having an enormous display, LG Gram 17 is the lightest laptop on this list. On top of that, its battery life is incredible. Well, there is more to talk about this incredible machine.
This Intel Evo notebook is encapsulated with a 17-inch IPS panel with 2560 x 1600 resolution and a 99% DCI-P3 color gamut. The larger panel allows working with several programs side by side. It’s capable of delivering highly color-precise and crisp images, which makes it perfect for editing, designing, programming, and several other tasks.
The design is commendable, highly sleek, compact, and portable. There is no compromise in the durability either; it’s certified with a 7 MIL-STD-810G test after proven its sturdiness. Additionally, it offers around 11 hours of impressive running time with a single charge.
You can attach anything you want with the support of 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and 2x USB Type-A ports. However, the dedicated LAN port isn’t available, which you should remember. The cameras and sound quality is improved significantly compared to its previous model. It offers Facial Recognition and Presence Detection features to ensure higher privacy.
In the performance department, the LG Gram 17 is fueled with an Intel Core i7-1260P 12-Core processor, 16GB memory, and 1TB PCIe SSD storage, ensuring dependable performance. Mind you, no dedicated GPU is available, which could be problematic if you’re into heavy-graphics tasks such as modeling, editing, or gaming. However, as a control engineer, you don’t usually require it.
PROS
- Intel Evo certified
- Enormous display with 99% DCI-P3
- Lightest and compact design
- Fantastic durability
- Extended battery life
- Thunderbolt 4
- Dependable performance
- Quality webcam and sound
CONS
- No dedicated GPU
- Slightly costly
4. MSI Prestige 16 (Another Fantastic Intel Evo Laptop for Control Engineers)
Weight: 4.19 lbs | Processor: i7-13700H @5.0GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 32GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 16-inch 165Hz , 2560 x 1600 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Windows 11 Pro
MSI Prestige 16 is a slightly better notebook than LG Gram 17 in some aspects. However, the LG Gram is still the winner if you prefer a handy notebook with more juice.
This Intel Evo laptop boasts a 100% DCI-P3 QHD+ 16-inch IPS panel with a 165Hz fast refresh rate which is so versatile that you can play games or work with color-sensitive tasks; it can play all roles wisely.
In terms of performance, it has better dice than LG Gram 17; it’s engineered with a 14-Core Intel Core i7-13700H processor, 32GB memory, and 1TB NVMe SSD. It can deliver better performance due to its two extra cores, 6% higher Turbo Boost frequency, and larger L3 cache size.
The Prestige 16 isn’t lightweight as the LG Gram 17, but it’s still very compact and easy to handle. It’s also certified with MIL-STD-810G standard, making it highly reliable and durable. To deliver consistent performance without noise, MSI introduced the Dynamic Cooler Boost in this notebook which maximizes the heat dissipation for the CPU.
It can fulfill our requirements with the support of 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, USB Type-A ports, a microSD card reader, and an audio combo jack. The MSI includes a fingerprint sensor and FHD IR camera with a webcam lock switch to maintain privacy and security.
MSI Prestige 16 is a powerful, compact, gorgeous, and highly secure laptop with a great battery life. While LG Gram 17 and MSI Prestige 16 are both Intel Evo-certified notebooks. If you prefer portability and battery life, the LG Gram 17 is the best, while for performance and display quality, Prestige could be a better option.
PROS
- Excellent quality display
- Robust performance
- Thunderbolt 4
- IR privacy FHD webcam
- Fingerprint sensor
- Ideal battery life
- Slim, sturdy, and compact design
CONS
- Not for intense graphical work
- A bit pricey
5. HP OMEN 17 (Giant Gaming Laptop for PLC Programming)
Weight: 6.15 lbs | Processor: i7-12700H @4.7 GHz | GPU: RTX 3060 6GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17.3-inch 144Hz , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 5-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
It’s the second large laptop after LG Gram 17 on this list, but it’s very different in performance. It’s a gaming notebook designed to handle intricate graphics performance along with heavy processing. That’s why its battery life and weight aren’t favorable for most users. However, it still offers an impressively compact and slim body.
The Omen 17 is designed with a 17-inch full HD display supported by a 100% sRGB color gamut, 7ms response time, and 144Hz refresh rate. In short, it’s equally suitable for playing games and other professional work.
HP has designed this laptop very well, and has evolved over the years. This model is surprisingly compact and slim than its predecessors. On top of that, it’s crafted from a metal body, ensuring higher durability. The Tempest Cooling technology, RGB keyboard, and rich-quality audio are more perks when you opt for this machine.
In terms of connectivity, gaming laptops won’t let you down whether you want to hook up multiple monitors or other devices. It has several ports, including HDMI, mini DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 4, and RJ 45.
This gaming machine houses an Intel Core i7-12700H robust CPU, 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD, and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, making it so powerful that it can handle all the latest games. Talking of PLC programming work, whether you do 3D modeling or work with complex software programs, you won’t face any issues.
The only downside of this laptop is its weight and battery life; otherwise, in terms of performance, it’s like a soldier who won’t kneel.
PROS
- Decent display quality
- Dependable performance
- A sturdy and sleek body
- Good audio quality
- RGB backlit keyboard
- Comprehensive connectivity options
CONS
- Heavy
- Inferior battery
6. Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (Best Gaming Laptop for Control Engineers)
Weight: 5.5 lbs | Processor: i7-13700HX @5.0GHz | GPU: RTX 4060 8GB | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 16-inch 165Hz , 2560 x 1600 | Battery Life: 4-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Lenovo Legion Pro 5i is another gaming laptop packed with fantastic features which could be a solid deal for control engineers. Mind you, if you’re looking for a longer running time with better mobility, you should opt for an Intel Evo notebook rather than a gaming machine.
Usually, gaming machines are designed while considering performance in mind. That’s why good battery life is unexpected; even some people always use their gaming laptops while connected to the wall. You must determine your need and how often you work away from your desk.
Out of the box, Lenovo Legion Pro 5i offers a beast Intel Core i7-13700HX processor paired with 16GB memory and 512GB PCIe SSD. For tackling intense graphics, Lenovo has installed an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 8GB GPU in this buddy. Whether it’s about rigorous multitasking, running several virtual machines, or even playing games, this is a perfect choice. Mind you, you can even extend memory and storage per your requirements.
As a gaming laptop, the display quality is also outstanding; it features a 16-inch IPS anti-glare panel with 2560 x 1600 pixels, 100%sRGB, 300-nits, and 165Hz refresh rate. The sharpness, color accuracy, and readability are excellent for our work.
This machine is equipped with versatile connectivity options; you can connect from a USB mouse to the high-end 4K external monitor. Moreover, RGB backlit keyboard, Premium sound quality, an FHD camera with an E-Camera shutter, and super fast charging are some more exciting features you’ll get.
PROS
- Superior performance
- Fantastic display
- Plenty of I/O ports
- RGB Backlit keyboard.
- Efficient thermal design
- Great audio and mics
- FHD camera with E-Shutter
CONS
- Poor battery life
- During higher workloads, fans might be noisy
7. Dell XPS 17 9720 (Premium Laptop for PLC Programming)
Weight: 5.67 lbs | Processor: i7-12700H @4.7 GHz | GPU: RTX 3050 Ti 4GB | Memory: 16/32 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 17-inch touch , 3840 x 2400 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Window 11 Pro
If you have a decent budget and looking for a superior-quality laptop for PLC programming, the Dell XPS 17 9720 could be a fantastic option.
This premium notebook is designed with a 17-inch 4K UHD+ touch display supported by an Anti-reflect coating and 500-nits brightness. Therefore, it’s not only capable of delivering life-like image quality but is also ideal for outdoors. With the ultra-high-resolution and spacious panel, you can work with multi-windows conveniently.
From the performance aspect, the XPS offers an Intel Core i7-12700H processor with 16GB memory, 512GB NVMe SSD storage, and Nvidia RTX 3050 4GB discrete GPU. Mind you, the memory and storage are upgradeable up to 64 GB and 8TB, respectively. For PLC programming professionals, it has enough gunpowder, whether they use highly resource-intensive CAD, SCADA, HMI development, or PLC programming software.
Dell XPS 17 is a professional and sleek notebook crafted from aluminum through a CNC milling process, which looks marvelous and offers supreme durability. The touchpad and keyboard quality is exceptional; you’ll experience efficient cursor control and typing. Moreover, you can unlock your notebook within milliseconds with an IR camera and fingerprint sensor.
The XPS 17 features four Thunderbolt 4 ports backed with DisplayPort and Power delivery, allowing you to connect anything with superior bandwidth and power. Also, the battery life is impressive; it can withstand up to 8 hours.
The only thing I don’t like besides the high price is the lack of USB Type-A ports which help connect older devices easily. It’s still possible, but you must use an extra Type-C hub.
PROS
- Paramount quality 4K display
- Incredible performance
- Astonishing and gorgeous slim metal body
- Ideal battery life
- Thunderbolt 4
- IR Camera and fingerprint sensor
- Premium quality sound
CONS
- Very expensive
- Only Type-C ports
8. Lenovo ThinkPad P17 (Best Workstation Laptop for PLC Programming)
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Weight: 8.09 lbs | Processor: Xeon W-11855M @4.9GHz | GPU: RTX A4000 8GB | Memory: 32GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17.3-inch , 3840 x 2160 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Windows 11 Pro
The Lenovo ThinkPad is one of the most reliable series many loved by many professionals and engineers. The reason behind this is its hardware configuration. The workstation cards used in these laptops are long-lasting and specially optimized for professional use such as CAD/CAM, 3D modeling, animation, and scientific simulations,
This ThinkPad 17 workstation can handle anything you throw at it, whether a complex 3D modeling project or an intricate PLC programming task.
Unlike other laptops, this workstation is powered by a Hexa-Core Intel Xeon W-11855M CPU backed by a 4.90GHz clock speed and 12MB Smart Cache. The support of Error correction code (ECC) RAM helps ensure data protection by stopping corruption at the source. It also has 32GB preinstalled memory and 1TB SSD; you can enhance it further. An Nvidia RTX A4000 8GB GPU is given to handle rigorous graphics processing. This workstation card is highly compatible with most professional applications mentioned above.
Overall, it does not just provide dependable performance but also ensures data protection while working.
When it comes to I/O ports, Lenovo ThinkPad Workstation has everything you need as an IT professional. It includes 2x Thunderbolt 4, Type-C, RJ45, HDMI, 2x USB Type-A ports, an SD Card reader, and a headphone/mic combo.
The ThinkPad P17 is enclosed by a 17.3-inch IPS panel enriched with UHD resolution, 500 nits, and anti-glare coating. The picture quality is mind-blowing; it ensures highly crisp and vivid images.
The Lenovo ThinkPad P17 has an Intel Xeon processor, TPM Chip, fingerprint sensor, and privacy camera to ensure higher data security and privacy. The battery life is also decent considering its hefty hardware and high-end display. Moreover, Rapid Charge technology supports up to a 230W power supply unit.
Undoubtedly, it’s the heaviest laptop on this list, but it’s not designed for mobility. Lenovo ThinkPad P17 could be the best choice if you’re looking for a workstation for your high-end computational needs.
PROS
- Dependable performance
- Workstation GPU
- Sturdy and durable design
- Reliable keyboard and touchpad
- A secure and reliable workstation
- Comprehensive connectivity options
- Decent battery backup
- Rapid charge
- Highest compatibility with professional software
CONS
- Expensive and heavy
Best Computers for PLC Programming in 2024
As I said in the beginning, you should opt for the hardware configuration that aligns with your needs. That’s why this list contains several types of laptops for control engineers.
If your work is limited to programming and some basic tasks, you can choose Acer Aspire Vero or Acer Swift X. However, the Acer Swift X offers better mobility and graphics processing power.
For higher mobility, better battery life, and good performance Intel Evo laptop could be an ideal choice, but remember, they usually don’t offer a dedicated GPU. That’s why dealing with intense graphics processing such as 3D modeling or gaming is painful for them. LG Gram 17 is my recommendation. If you prefer power and display quality, MSI Prestige is another Invel Evo laptop I suggested.
Gaming laptops offer robust hardware, but they lack portability and battery life. I have suggested HP Omen 17 and Lenovo Legion Pro 5i for gaming machines. While the HP Omen boasts a much larger display with extensive connectivity options. Lenovo is my first recommendation because of its latest hardware, better picture quality, and portability.
